Jagielka prepared to patient

Aug 17 2007

Everton new boy Phil Jagielka understands that his team’s position at the top of the Barclays Premier League after two straight wins means he has to be patient following his £4million move.

Everton visit Reading tomorrow with every hope of adding to their already impressive start to the campaign, where they lead the division on goal difference from Manchester City and Chelsea.

Even more so because they are using virtually the same players that claimed sixth spot last season and have not been hindered by significant injury problems to Leighton Baines, Tim Cahill and James Vaughan.

But utility man Jagielka still cannot find his way into the side.

The former Sheffield United player was on the bench last weekend for the win over Wigan, and made a second-half appearance as a substitute at Tottenham on Monday as Everton fought successfully to close out a game they had won in the first-half with a three-goal salvo.

The chances of the England B player starting at Reading seem unlikely, and he says: “I knew I would have to bide my time.

“The lads did fantastically well last season so the gaffer is playing the team that more or less finished last season.

“It is a squad game. I had my 15-minute cameo at White Hart Lane so hopefully I will get on again - because I cannot see the gaffer changing it for Reading - and see how I do.

“Nine or even seven points from the first three games would be a fantastic start and hopefully we will have a good result on Saturday.”

Baines has been in training this week after a hamstring injury, but he is short of match fitness so Joleon Lescott will probably continue.

Another of Everton’s unsung heroes, Leon Osman, aims to continue his fine form which has brought him goals in both opening matches.

He said: “It is something I aim to do, score in every game. It is not always easy but the chances have come along and I have put them away.

“Hopefully the chances will keep coming and this scoring run of mine continues. We will go to Reading confident and hopefully come away with another win.”